Latest news with #Saugandh
Indian Express
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
Actor with 14 flops took Ajay Devgn's role in blockbuster, promised 100 films with director, hasn't spoken to him in 20 years
If you look at Akshay Kumar's career trajectory, there has been phases of hits and flops. While his early films, including his debut Saugandh (1991), failed to earn him fame, Khiladi (1992) turned him into an overnight sensation. Between 1996 and 1999, his films Khiladiyon Ka Khiladi and Sangharsh worked in his favour, several of his other films flopped, making directors and producers 'ridicule' and 'reject' him. Around the same time, he teamed up with filmmaker Suneel Darshan for Jaanwar, a film that marked his comeback. The success made the same directors and producers who once dismissed him eager to work with him. However, things eventually soured between Akshay and Suneel, and the two haven't met in the past 20 years. In a recent interview with Bollywood Bubble, Suneel Darshan opened up about the time when Akshay Kumar requested to cast him in his film Jaanwar. 'Akshay had been through a phase of his career when he had stopped getting movies. He had reached a point where he had about 13-14 flops. He didn't know how to go forward. And when someone is unsuccessful, people try their best to push them away and he was going through that phase.' It was around the same time when Suneel Darshan had a misunderstanding with Sunny Deol, for whom Jaanwar was originally scripted. 'I had a script written for Sunny Deol, who let me down for a different agenda. After that, I decided I will not be working with him. After Sunny, I approached Ajay Devgn. He was very keen to do the film. The distance was just like cup and lip from him doing the film when Akshay Kumar called me. He met me. We talked and I thought 'My God! He is such a gorgeous looking man! He was very humble, had the humility of a Punjabi boy.' ALSO READ | Vivek Agnihotri calls Sandeep Reddy Vanga his alter ego, says he is showing truth through his films: 'Does your society respect women?' He added, 'Besides all this, there was this one thing about him–his reputation of being a very disciplined actor. While these were his plus points, the biggest minus point was that he was not saleable. And to make a movie of that size with a hero who was not saleable, was a very big risk to take. It was a huge challenge.' Exposing the reality of the glamour industry, Suneel Darshan shared people are only nice to successful actors. But, as soon as they have a downfall, the same people humiliate them. 'It is very traumatic for the actors.' 'After that, Jaanwar happened. It was very well supported by my entire team, which included Karisma Kapoor who was a top star at that point of time.' The success of Jaanwar led to Suneel and Akshay signing six more films together–Ek Rishtaa, Talaash, Dosti, Mere Jeevan Saathi, and Andaaz. Suneel directed them all except Andaaz. Their collaboration too were a mix of hits and flops. The filmmaker recalled, 'We did seven films together and co-incidentally our seventh and last film was titled Dosti. He was in this office for seven years. He operated from the same office for seven years. He would come everyday when he was not shooting. I wanted his good from day 1. It was just me who stood up for him when everybody else only rejected and ridiculed him. And this is something he told me himself. And I was the happiest when Akshay worked with the same lot of people but on his own terms. That was my biggest win.' However, during their sixth film, Suneel felt a difference in Akshay's energy. 'After Jaanwar's success, he took me in out in his car. We drove to a construction place. We sat there. He said, 'It has come to my notice that you are planning to cast a new hero for your new film. I heard you went to his father's office. I was like, 'Yes, I did. But that is because I share a bond with his father and he wanted to show him to me.' Then he requested, 'Please sir, don't sign anybody else, it will affect my career.' He held my hand and promised to me, 'Suneel Ji, I promise to make 100 films with you.' I just kept looking at him.' He added, 'Anyway, the truth is even making seven films with the same person in the same stretch was a big thing in itself. While doing our sixth film, I could feel a difference in his behaviour. And it got quite evident when we shot for our seventh film. When I sensed it, I thought to myself that it is better if I step back at a situation like this. And I moved on.' Suneel and Akshay, who had become close friends, suddenly grew so distant that they haven't met each other in 20 years. 'The last time I met Akshay Kumar was back in 2005. We have never met after that. Post that, he wished me maybe once or twice for my birthday,' shared the director. He added, 'I didn't want him to have a baggage of his past. I told him, 'I will be happy if you maintain your career.' Even Amitabh Bachchan made several films with Prakash Mehra, but after a point things didn't work between them. It often happens with actors.'
Time of India
28-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Did you know Akshay Kumar first faced the camera at the age of 23? "Before I could realise, it soon became my first love," wrote the actor when he shared a throwback post
Akshay Kumar is one of the top stars in the Indian film industry, with a career that has spanned over three decades. Known for his versatility, he has played a wide range of roles — from comedy and action to romance. He faced the camera for the first time at the age of 23 and made his Hindi film debut at 24 with 'Saugandh'. And these firsts hold a special place in the actor's heart. Akshay Kumar's Throwback from His First Photoshoot The 'Khiladi' star took a walk down memory lane by sharing a picture from his very first photoshoot. In the photo, a young and dreamy-looking Akshay is seen gazing away from the camera, posing with his hand near his face. He is dressed in a white and blue shirt, capturing the charm of his early days in the industry. "Your firsts are always special. And so is this photo, taken when I was 23…my first time in front of the camera and before I could realise, it soon became my first love, all thanks to your love. #ThrowbackThursday," he captioned the picture. Journey from Action Hero to National Award Winner Akshay found commercial success with his second film, 'Khiladi' in 1992, which earned him the nickname "Khiladi Kumar." The movie marked the beginning of his image as an action star in the 1990s and led to a series of Khiladi films, along with other action hits like 'Mohra' (1994) and 'Jaanwar' (1999). by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Stylish New Mobility Scooters Available for Seniors (Prices May Surprise You) Mobility Scooter | Search Ads Search Now Undo As his career progressed, Akshay also gained popularity for his performances in romantic films like 'Dhadkan' (2000), 'Andaaz' (2003), 'Namastey London' (2007). He became a fan favorite for his comic timing in movies such as 'Hera Pheri' (2000), 'Mujhse Shaadi Karogi' (2004), 'Phir Hera Pheri' (2006), 'Bhool Bhulaiyaa' (2007), 'Singh Is Kinng' (2008). In 2016, Akshay won the National Film Award for Best Actor for his role in 'Rustom'. Over the years, he has also become known for films with patriotic themes. Movies like 'Airlift', 'Kesari', and 'Mission Mangal' showcased his dedication to stories of national pride. He was last seen in 'Housefull 5' and next he has 'Jolly LLB' alongside Arshad Warsi . 'Hera Pheri 3' CONFIRMED! Akshay Kumar Says 'We Are Back Together'
India.com
27-06-2025
- Entertainment
- India.com
This actress gave flop with Rishi Kapoor, worked with Amitabh Bachchan, once ran boutique for a living, her name is…
At a time when most rising stars would chase every opportunity to shine brighter, she chose a different path. Just when major roles opposite iconic legends of Indian cinema were coming her way, she quietly stepped back from the spotlight. Her decision surprised many, as she had the screen presence, charm, and talent to go far. Instead of fame, she chose distance leaving behind what could've been glorious Bollywood run. Bollywood Actress Rukhsar Rehman Here we are talking about actress Rukhsar Rehman, who made her debut in the 1992 romantic movie 'Yaad Rakhegi Duniya', helmed by Deepak Anand. The film featured Aditya Pancholi, a famous actor from that time, in the main role. However, the actress captured all the attention. The movie was also a success. Yet, the actress' career did not flourish as much. She was found by director Sawan Kumar Tak, who wanted to cast her in his film. However, he asked Ruksar to sign a three-year contract, which she declined. This led to Rukhsar being replaced by Chandni in 1991's, Sanam Bewafa. That same year, she appeared alongside Rishi Kapoor in Inteha Pyar Ki. Rukhsar gained attention after her role in Inteha Pyar Ki, despite it was declared as big flop, Rukhsar was approached with many big films, but she then made the difficult choice to leave films to focus on her education. Rukhsar's father wanted her to finish her studies, so he called her back. Rukhsar respected her father's wishes and returned to Rampur. She was offered roles in Saugandh, Baazigar, and 1942: A Love Story, but she turned down all these offers, which allowed other actresses to benefit. After completing her education, Rukhsar chose to return to acting, making her comeback after ten years with Ram Gopal Varma's D (2005). However, she was only receiving offers for supporting roles, with actors Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan, Aamir Khan and others in Sarkar, God Tussi Great Ho, PK, Shaitan and Uri: The Surgical Strike. At the same time, Rukhsar gained recognition on television with shows like Kuch Toh Log Kahenge and Tumhari Paakhi. Rukhsar Rehman's Personal Life Rukhsar was initially married to actor Asad Ahmed, and they have a daughter, actress Aisha Ahmed. After a few years, Rukhsar and Asad separated. Meanwhile, after her first divorce Rukhsar came to her father's house, who lives in Rampur, Uttar Pradesh. After some days, she opened a garment boutique to earn a living. In this way, she started earning a living from this boutique and started raising her daughter. In 2010, she took marriage vows with director Faruk Kabir. However, Rukhsar and Faruk also got separated in 2023. Currently, Rukhsar is living with her daughter in Mumbai.
India.com
23-06-2025
- Entertainment
- India.com
Meet actor whose fee has jumped from Rs 5000 to Rs 900000000 in just..., his name is..., net worth is Rs...
Several actors in the Bollywood industry are millionaires today, but at the beginning of their careers, they likely never imagined they would reach such heights. Today, we're talking about one such actor who started his journey with a fee of just Rs 5,000 and now charges Rs 90 crore per film. He is one of the most successful and beloved actors in the industry. He releases around four films in a year; however, the ratio of hit movies is lower. His career is currently going through a rough phase, as he has been searching for a hit for quite some time. Still, his journey remains incredibly inspiring as he has accomplished milestones that are difficult for most to match. We are talking about Akshay Kumar! He began his career in 1991 with the film Saugandh. Before entering Bollywood, he trained in martial arts and also worked as a chef in Bangkok. Having started his journey with modelling, Akshay has made some interesting revelations about his early life. In an interview with Pinkvilla , he shared that his first salary was Rs 5,001 for the film 'Deedar', released in 1992. Pramod Chakraborty gave him a cheque of Rs 5K, but the actor signed this film for Rs 50,000. However, his fees have increased a lot in his 33-year career. Akshay was quoted in 2017, telling the leading tabloid, 'Much to my surprise, he (Pramod Chakravorty) gave me my first cheque, signed me up for three films, immediately. Right away. He gave me a cheque of Rs 5000, for the first film, Rs 50,000, for second film, and the third cheque had Rs 1.5 lakh on it. The exact time he gave me those cheques was 6 o'clock in the evening. It would have been a disaster if I had gone to Bangalore. Today, I would be a retired model somewhere. So yes, whatever happens is for the good.' Akshay Kumar himself believes that it is 70% luck and 30% hard work. In his career, the actor has given many hit, semi-hit, flop and blockbuster films. It is said that he charged Rs 145 crore for his last film 'Kesari Chapter 2'. Some time ago, a Forbes report on Akshay Kumar's wealth was released, revealing that his total net worth is Rs 2,700 crore. Despite delivering a series of flop films, he continues to be in high demand among directors.
India.com
22-06-2025
- Entertainment
- India.com
Meet Bollywood's superhit star, was once paid Rs. 5001 for a film, now charges Rs. 90 crores per film, he is.., his net worth is...
Meet Bollywood's superhit star, was once paid Rs. 5001 for a film, now charges Rs. 90 crores per film, he is.., his net worth is... In the glitzy and glamorous world of Bollywood, many people come to Mumbai with a suitcase full of dreams and aspirations to make it big on the silver screen. However, there are only a few rare gems that can achieve that massive success and earn such stardom. One such example of this is Bollywood's most celebrated actor, who had a very humble beginning but slowly reached the heights of success that made him one of the most bankable stars of Bollywood The actor we are talking about is none other than Khilladi of Bollywood, Akshay Kumar. Long before Akshay Kumar ruled the entertainment industry, he was working in Bangkok, where he was training in martial arts and also used to cook food to make ends meet. Later, he started doing modelling and eventually entered the film industry. His first paycheck as an actor was Rs 50,000, but in his initial days, he was once paid only Rs 5001 for the film Deedar by producer Pramod Chakravorty. Akshay did many films, some turned out to be a massive hit, while others didn't meet expectations. However, one film that rose him to fame was Saugandh. It was released in the year 1991 and gained him a lot of attention and love from the audience. According to Akshay himself, his success is 70% luck and 30% hard work—a rare humility in today's world of self-praise. In his 33-year-long career trajectory, Akshay has not only built a massive fan base but also an empire. According to reports, the star who was once paid only Rs. 5001 for a film, now charges Rs. 90 crores per film. In fact, for his blockbuster films like Kesari Chapter 2, he has allegedly charged Rs 145 crores. Based on his massive fan base, filmmakers want to work with him. As per a Forbes report, Akshay Kumar's net worth today is approximately Rs. 2700 crores. What's even more impressive is that Akshay is a self-made actor who ventured into this industry without taking help from any godfather. His journey speaks of determination, hard work, and persistence.
